The current log leaders of Stream E of the MMK Administrators League, Makhitha Oscar Stars, fought hard to obtain a 1-0 victory over Makhitha Iyarunga in their local derby at Makhitha on Sunday.
Iyarunga had nobody else to blame for the defeat but themselves. They squandered countless scoring opportunities throughout the game. Their demon striker, Moses Mabeba, was tightly marked and he moved back and played as a midfielder.
Itani Selota of Stars was booked for a late tackle on Mbavhalelo Mufamadi three minutes before the half-time whistle.
The second half saw Iyarunga commit more blunders. Their right winger, Mulalo Munzhedzi, unleashed aimlessly from inside the box in the 50th minute, instead of relaxing on the ball and picking the spot.
Both sides effected some changes to their starting line-ups in the last half. Stars called on Sydney Luvhengo, Lutendo Machaba and Takalani Mbekwa, and Iyarunga responded by introducing Itani Dzhabuli, Innocent Mathatha and Shumani Mudau.
Lymond Muleya of Stars was also warned with a card for dangerous play on Tambulani Sithari in the 65th minute. Stars' all-important goal came in the 74th minute. Leavy Machaba blasted in a rocket from inside the box.
Late in the game, Stars defender Itani Selota was red-carded for a second bookable offence.